With the Premier League champions gearing up for a crucial summer transfer window, the Cameroonian youngster has emerged as a potential target for Pep Guardiola’s evolving squad. After securing their fourth consecutive league title, City’s recruitment team—led by Hugo Viana and Txiki Begiristain—are plotting strategic moves to strengthen the squad for the future. Following a tough season plagued by injuries and fitness setbacks, there is a widespread belief within the club that a significant refresh is necessary. The January window already saw four new arrivals, but more reinforcements are expected.
With Kevin De Bruyne set to leave after the club opted against renewing his contract, midfield reinforcements have become a key priority. While City’s interest in Bayer Leverkusen’s Florian Wirtz has dominated headlines, reports from Germany suggest the playmaker is bound for Bayern Munich. As a result, attention may shift toward other targets, including Nottingham Forest’s Morgan Gibbs-White.
Now, MailSport’s Jack Gaughan has revealed that Manchester City had scouts in attendance during one of Brighton’s matches back in January, taking a keen interest in Baleba. The 21-year-old midfielder is said to have impressed the club’s recruitment team, placing him firmly on their watchlist. However, given his standout performances for Brighton this season, it’s no surprise that other top European clubs are also keeping a close eye on him.
Baleba only joined Brighton in the summer of 2023, signing a five-year contract following a €27 million transfer from Lille, with a potential €3 million in add-ons. Any high-profile move for the midfielder will also have financial implications for Lille, who hold a 15% sell-on clause as part of the original deal.
With City eyeing a midfield rebuild, Baleba’s name is now firmly in the conversation. Whether the club makes a move remains to be seen, but he’s undoubtedly one to watch as the summer transfer window approaches.